1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1453 mm |
